This work presents a membrane-targeted azobenzene (MT) as light-responsive tool for cell stimulation. MT photoisomerization alters local charge distribution, inducing depolarization. MT shows stable membrane integration and consistent depolarization in various cell types. Authors suggest that time varying nanodipoles are responsible for the surface potential change inducing depolarization. Though insufficient to trigger action potentials, MT offers potential in cardiac electrophysiology, including arrhythmia modulation. This approach promises applications in neuroscience, biomedicine, and biophotonics, bypassing genetic modifications.

A recent study has revealed the molecular mechanisms behind the temperature-dependent and tissue-specific accumulation of anthocyanins in peach fruits. 

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking, freely available droplet microfluidic component library, which promises to transform the way microfluidic devices are created.

A new study sheds light on the genetic underpinnings of two rare apricot species endemic to southern China—Prunus hongpingensis (PHP) and Prunus zhengheensis (PZH).

A new study reveals the positive impact of intercropping leguminous plants like soybean and Chinese milkvetch with tea crops. 

In a development for artificial intelligence, researchers have unveiled a 28×28 synaptic device array that promises to revolutionize artificial visual systems.

A new study has unveiled the intricate 3D genome structure of Brassica crops, thanks to an optimized Bridge Linker High-throughput Chromosome Conformation Capture (BL-Hi-C) technology. 

The fading of apple skin color during fruit development has long been a challenge for both scientists and growers.

Scientists have created a new way to quickly and minimally invasively detect glucose using microneedles. 

In a paper published in National Science Review, an international team of scientists found a significant decline of downward surface solar radiation (DSSR) from 1959 to 2014. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) and anthropogenic aerosols contributed equally to the weakening of the DSSR and the role of GHGs was more significant after 1979. Whether DSSR would continue to decrease in the future is highly dependent on emission policies. The implementation of relatively lower aerosols and CO₂ emissions will help to curb the weakening of DSSR and provide a key guarantee for a smooth transition from traditional fossil energy sources to a cleaner one.